What is the difference between double displacement reactions and single displacement reactions?

Answer 1

Single replacement:

element + compound --> element + compound

example: Mg(s) + ZnCl2(aq) --> Zn(s) + MgCl2(aq)

Double replacement

two compounds --> two compounds (at least one of the products is insoluble in water)

example: AgNO3(aq) + HCl(aq) --> HNO3(aq) + AgCl(s)

Answer 2

In single displacement, only one ion moves:

MgO + Ca -> CaO + Mg

Notice that the only thing that happens in the reaction is that the Ca displaces the Mg. Nothing else.

In double displacement, two ions move:

NaCl + Ca(OH)2 -> CaCl2 + NaOH

Here, two ions move. The Na displaces the Ca, and the Ca takes the place of the Na.

It should be noted that most times, in single displacement reactions, there is a single atom in its uncharged state and a compound involved. In double displacement reactions, there are two or more compounds involved.

Answer 3

Yes